It took a year to read the Bible, then almost 9 months to read the Apocrypha. Now, I'm going to try to offer reflections on the Narrative Lectionary. But, I won't be posting daily--at least, for a while.

Saturday, March 1, 2014

Reflection on readings for March 1

Rise up, come to our help.
Redeem us for the sake of your steadfast love.
(Psalm 44:26)

Leviticus 24:1-25:46
Like much of Leviticus, this passage seems harsh yet familiar. For example, anybody who destroys someone else's property has to make restitution. Another recommendation is letting the land lie fallow periodically. Instead of forgiving debts every fifty years, we have a system of allowing bankruptcy.

Mark 10:13-31
A few years ago, three long-divided denominations, Methodists, Catholics, and Lutherans, made a public commitment to unity. Their agreement "on justification by faith, or how individuals are forgiven and brought into a right relationship with God, began with a colorful opening procession in which robed leaders of the three historic Christian traditions walked side by side."

I'm going to have to say that this doctrine is important and has been divisive. But, I wonder what joint statement they could issue on their understanding of selling all (17-22). Or, what joint statement could the possibly issue about Christianity requiring someone to desert work, home and family (29-31)?

Yes, I know that Mark's community thought the end of the world was near and that they wouldn't have to live long without assets. But, still. What is the source of our happiness? How closely are we willing to live to Jesus' test of who would get eternal life?

Psalm 44:9-26
After extolling God about the care provided for the nation earlier, Psalm 44 then turns to the right now. The nation feels rejected, their problems are dire and ignored. Yet, they still turn to God.

Prayer for Today: O Lord our God, we remember the love you have shown us. Help us to find ways and willingness to share that love with others. We pause today to remember the contributions that the women in our denomination have exemplified this sharing. Amen.
Proverbs 10:20-21

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